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PM covers a broad spectrum of issues relevant to all sections of Australia's geographically and culturally diverse community. It looks behind political, economic, industrial, business, social, cultural, rural, regional and arts stories. Below is the program summary with links to transcripts and audio (if available).

Senator Stott Despoja quits leadership

The contradictions in the Australian Democrats, between parliamentary factions, between left and centre right, and between senators and grass roots members, finally became too much for Senator Natasha Stott Despoja.

Senator Cherry speaks about Natasha Stott Despoja

It was the Queensland Democrat, Senator John Cherry, who put up the 10 points of concern to the Party room which ultimately led to Natasha Stott-Despoja's resignation. He speaks to our chief political correspondent, Catherine McGrath.

A history of Natasha Stott Despoja

Democrats president has confidence in Ms Stott-Despoja

Democrats president Liz Oss-Emer says the senator should now stand for the leadership position she's just vacated. She says Senator Stott Despoja would be likely to win because she enjoys the support of the majority of the members.

Dr Pell receives support from all quarters

Dr George Pell has spent his first day on forced leave after the revelation that allegations about child sexual abuse had been levelled against him. He has been deluged with messages of support from many quarters.

Commonwealth Bank posts money profit and job loss

Reserve bank looking forward to lifting interest rates

The Reserve Bank governor has made it as clear that he expects to resume his project of lifting interest rates, as soon as stability returns to global sharemarkets and there's evidence the US economy will avoid a downturn.

Chinese Woodstock

New Zealand's battle against meningococcal meningitis

New Zealand has been battling an epidemic of the disease for the past decade, and is close to releasing a vaccine for the most prevalent type in Australia. However, the Australian government apparently only intends to immunise against the C strain.